AWG Wire Gauge Chart
NEC Table 314.16(B) conductor volume allowances for electrical box fill calculations.
| AWG Size | Volume (cu.in.) | Volume (mm\u00B3) | Max Amps | Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 18 AWG | 1.50 | 24.6 | 7A | Thermostat wiring, Doorbell circuits |
| 16 AWG | 1.75 | 28.7 | 10A | Extension cords, Light fixtures |
| 14 AWG | 2.00 | 32.8 | 15A | 15-amp circuits, Lighting circuits |
| 12 AWG | 2.25 | 36.9 | 20A | 20-amp circuits, Kitchen outlets |
| 10 AWG | 2.50 | 41.0 | 30A | 30-amp circuits, Electric dryers |
| 8 AWG | 3.00 | 49.2 | 40A | 40-amp circuits, Electric ranges |
| 6 AWG | 5.00 | 82.0 | 55A | 55-amp circuits, Sub-panel feeders |
Conductor Volume Details
18 AWG Conductor
18 AWG conductors are typically used for low-voltage applications and control wiring.
Volume Allowance: 1.5 cu.in. (24.6 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 7 amps
Applications: Thermostat wiring, Doorbell circuits, Low-voltage controls
16 AWG Conductor
16 AWG conductors are used for light-duty circuits and appliance cords.
Volume Allowance: 1.75 cu.in. (28.7 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 10 amps
Applications: Extension cords, Light fixtures, Small appliances
14 AWG Conductor
14 AWG is the minimum size for standard 15-amp household circuits per NEC.
Volume Allowance: 2 cu.in. (32.8 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 15 amps
Applications: 15-amp circuits, Lighting circuits, General outlets
12 AWG Conductor
12 AWG conductors are required for 20-amp circuits and kitchen/bathroom outlets.
Volume Allowance: 2.25 cu.in. (36.9 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 20 amps
Applications: 20-amp circuits, Kitchen outlets, Bathroom GFCIs, Garage circuits
10 AWG Conductor
10 AWG conductors are used for 30-amp circuits such as dryers and water heaters.
Volume Allowance: 2.5 cu.in. (41 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 30 amps
Applications: 30-amp circuits, Electric dryers, Water heaters, AC units
8 AWG Conductor
8 AWG conductors support 40-amp circuits for ranges and large appliances.
Volume Allowance: 3 cu.in. (49.2 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 40 amps
Applications: 40-amp circuits, Electric ranges, Large AC units, Hot tubs
6 AWG Conductor
6 AWG conductors are used for 55-amp circuits and sub-panel feeders.
Volume Allowance: 5 cu.in. (82 mm\u00B3)
Maximum Ampacity: 55 amps
Applications: 55-amp circuits, Sub-panel feeders, Large appliances, EV chargers